Beat finals week

Since you have already made that pilgrimage back to Bloomington after break, your stomachs filled with turkey and all the trimmings, I have to say it: It's crunch time. That's right -- like it or not, it's time once again to gear up for finals week. I shudder to think about the grueling weeks that lay ahead of me and the rest of IU's constituents.\nDuring Thanksgiving break this year, I enjoyed day after day of endless couch-sitting and reveled in the sheer joy of not being jarred into consciousness by my annoying-yet-effective cell-phone alarm. However, I could never quite shake the realization that Monday morning was looming ever-closer with each passing day. And as I sit at my desk on this gloomy Sunday evening, I can't help but wish I didn't have finals in a mere two weeks. But as you know, I'm not a miracle worker and thus I cannot eliminate the need for final examinations. \nI can, however, suggest a few things that might help you get through tests without the use of electro-shock therapy or post traumatic stress counseling. \n1. Pace yourself. With many projects and tests on the horizon, it is easy to get overwhelmed. I suggest that you give yourself plenty of time to complete all of your assignments. It helps me to make a "to-do list" every Sunday night so I can visualize what I need to do for the week (Thank you, Dr. Phil). Doing this helps me unclutter my brain. When I write everything out, my tasks seem less daunting. \n2. Treat yourself. Since finals are approaching and you are more likely to be busier than usual, it's always nice to do something nice for yourself every once in a while, especially after a grueling study session at the library or in your room. If you are a shop-a-holic on a budget like me, a quick trip to the mall for a small item can do the trick to instantly lift your spirits. If you like food (also a weakness of mine), order a bite from your favorite restaurant or make your favorite meal at home. \n3. Have a yoga break. Don't be scared. I promise it won't hurt to try. If you have never tried yoga before, do a quick search online for some relaxing breathing techniques and yoga stretches. Doing yoga before, during and after finals week can give you more energy to study and help de-stress your body at the same time. The longterm effects of practicing yoga speak for themselves. Yoga increases the oxygen flow in your body which can sharpen the mind and give you more energy if practiced regularly. Zen is in. Need I say more? \n4. Get in tune. If music can supposedly calm an angry beast, I'm sure it will help beat the finals-week blues. I'm not cool enough to have an iPod yet, but I do carry around my ultra cool Sony Walkman to dispense some mood boosting tunes. \nI am aware that my tips may not be your cup of tea, but they can sure stave off a trip to the psych-ward this December.